Helping Hands - Debt and money advice

For many people, housing problems begin because of financial difficulties. If you don't have much money, it can be difficult to find a decent home; if you can't pay the rent or mortgage, you could face eviction.

Whatever your situation, you should get advice immediately if you are having problems paying for your accommodation. Being threatened with eviction doesn't necessarily mean you will lose your home: it may be possible to sort things out, even if the bailiffs are on the way. But you need to act quickly.

You can also contact the National Debtline, the Shelter advice centre or your local advice service at One stop advice

If you rent your home and are claiming benefits, or are on a low income, you may be entitled to housing benefit to help you pay your rent. Local housing allowance is a new way of working out how much housing benefit you are entitled to if you rent from a private landlord.

If you think you might be entitled to help to pay your rent or your council tax, you should phone the Benefits Service on 0161 219 6100 to request a claim form or complete the online form.